﻿The Earthworm lesson was really fantastic. I did not prepare a Power Point presentation for this lesson because of the amount of time it takes but also because of the lack of interest in the previous presentation.

﻿So I opted for much more hands on learning in this lesson.﻿

﻿We also kept the pace by breaking up the lesson with very short lecture, exploring ﻿﻿outside, reading books, making art, and of course touching real and candy worms.﻿

﻿The best part about this lesson was being able to have the kids see and recognize the worm castings as well as setting the worms "free" in Miss Kiddy's garden. The kids chanted, "Go, worms, go!" As the creatures wriggled happily away into the cool, damp soil. ﻿

﻿Kids are starving for knowledge and information about the world around them. They might not even know it. But by connecting natural science and art I think that I have sparked curiosity in these young minds. They are so excited to learn about their world and we must encourage this as educators and parents! ﻿

﻿Luckily, there are endless creative avenues to explore in this realm of teaching. ﻿﻿

I would like to thank Kelly Chadwick, garden supervisor and plant/compost/garden expert at the University Center on the University of Montana Campus for providing me with the compost and "baby" worms. You can visit and 'Like' the University Center Garden's Facebook Page by clikcing on this link: https://www.facebook.com/ucgardens

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My name is Abby Sweet. I grew up in Stockett, Montana and I have lived in Missoula, Montana for over 10 years.

As I approach the end of my 20's, the end of my first college degree, and several personal endings..I find myself at many new beginnings. I am optimistic about my future, if somewhat fearful. But I've learned that it hurts to grow. And change is not easy.

Teaching is a big part of my future and I'm excited. I'm excited to inspire and promote change in others, but most importantly, to encourage growth and and compassion through the arts and appreciation of our natural world.